Is surgical intervention more effective than non-surgical treatment for carpal tunnel syndrome

Description: Conclusion: Both surgical and conservative interventions had treatment benefit in carpal tunnel syndrome. Surgical treatment has a superior benefit, in symptoms and function, at six and twelve months. Patient underwent surgical release were two times more likely to have normal nerve conduction studies but also had complication and side effects as well. Given the treatment differential and potential for adverse effects and that conservative interventions benefitted a substantial proportion of patients, current practice of a trial of conservative management with surgical release for severe or persistent symptoms is supported by evidence.
Is surgical intervention more effective than non-surgical treatment for carpal tunnel syndrome? a systematic review Qiyun Shi and Joy C. MacDermid Journal of Orthopaedic Surgery and Research 2011, 6:17